Best Outdoor Heater Australia
Australian winters are mild but outdoor entertaining doesn't stop — a decent patio heater extends your usable deck and alfresco season by months. The choice between gas, electric, and infrared depends on your space, power access, and whether you rent or own.
Buying Guide: What to Look For
- 1Gas heaters deliver the most heat output but need ventilation — never use under a fully enclosed pergola or carport
- 2Electric infrared heaters are best for renters since they mount without permanent installation and run off a standard 10A outlet
- 3Check your council's rules on gas bottle storage — some strata buildings in Sydney and Melbourne ban LPG cylinders on balconies
- 4Look for IP44 or higher weather ratings if the heater will be exposed to rain or coastal salt spray
- 5Calculate heating area in square metres — most manufacturers overstate coverage by 30-40% so size up if your patio is open-sided
Top 5 BBQ & Outdoor Picks for Australia
Bromic
Bromic Tungsten Smart-Heat 500 Series
| type | Electric infrared |
| wattage | 4000W |
| coverage | Up to 20sqm |
| ip_rating | IP44 |
| mounting | Wall or ceiling |
Pros
- Heats up to 20sqm effectively even in windy conditions
- Sleek low-profile design suits modern alfresco areas
- Smart-Heat wireless control system available
- IP44 rated for outdoor weather exposure
Cons
- Premium price point — over $700 for the unit alone
- Requires hardwired electrical installation by a licensed electrician
Verdict
Premium Australian-designed infrared heater with the best directional heat throw for open patios
Heatstrip
Heatstrip Intense 2200W Outdoor Heater
| type | Electric infrared |
| wattage | 2200W |
| coverage | Up to 12sqm |
| ip_rating | IP55 |
| mounting | Wall or ceiling |
Pros
- Australian-designed with local warranty support
- Slim profile mounts flush to ceiling or wall
- Silent operation with no fan noise
- 2200W suits standard 10A power outlet
Cons
- Lower wattage means reduced coverage compared to 3kW+ models
- No remote control included — sold separately
Verdict
Best mid-range infrared heater from a trusted Australian brand — ideal for covered patios
Gasmate
Gasmate Stellar Black Patio Heater
| type | Gas LPG |
| output | 12.5kW |
| coverage | Up to 25sqm |
| fuel | 9kg LPG bottle |
| height | 2.2m |
Pros
- No electricity needed — runs on standard 9kg LPG bottle
- Large heat radius covers open entertaining areas well
- Piezo ignition starts reliably in cold weather
- Wheels for easy repositioning
Cons
- Tall mushroom design is top-heavy in strong winds — use on level ground only
- Ongoing LPG refill costs add up over a winter season
Verdict
Classic mushroom-style gas heater that delivers strong heat output without needing a power point
Devanti
Devanti 2000W Electric Infrared Heater
| type | Electric infrared |
| wattage | 2000W |
| coverage | Up to 10sqm |
| ip_rating | IP65 |
| mounting | Wall mount |
Pros
- Under $150 — one of the cheapest infrared options available
- Carbon fibre heating element warms up in seconds
- IP65 rated for rain and dust exposure
- Three heat settings with remote control included
Cons
- Build quality is noticeably cheaper than Bromic or Heatstrip
- Heating coverage drops off sharply beyond 2 metres
Verdict
Budget-friendly wall-mount option that works well for covered balconies and small patios
Heatstrip
Thermofilm Heatstrip Max 3600W
| type | Electric infrared |
| wattage | 3600W |
| coverage | Up to 18sqm |
| ip_rating | IP55 |
| mounting | Ceiling or wall |
Pros
- 3600W output handles open-sided patios where cheaper heaters struggle
- Anodised aluminium housing resists coastal corrosion
- Australian designed with 2-year warranty
- IP55 rated for exposed installations
Cons
- Requires dedicated 15A circuit — not a plug-and-play install
- Price sits in the premium bracket at $500+
Verdict
High-output commercial-grade option for large open patios and outdoor dining areas
Editor's Note
Peak demand for outdoor heaters in Australia hits April–May, so retailers like Bunnings and The Good Guys run clearance from September. Bromic and Heatstrip are the go-to Australian brands for infrared, while Gasmate dominates the LPG mushroom heater segment. Budget electric options from Devanti and Maxkon are fine for covered balconies but lack the throw for open patios.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are outdoor heaters worth it in Australia?
Yes — even in Brisbane and Perth, evening temperatures drop enough in winter to make outdoor dining uncomfortable. A patio heater adds 3-4 months of usable outdoor time per year, which justifies the $150-$500 investment for most households that entertain regularly.
What type of outdoor heater is most efficient?
Electric infrared heaters are the most energy-efficient because they heat objects and people directly rather than warming the surrounding air. Gas mushroom heaters waste significant heat upward. For cost per hour, a 2kW electric infrared heater costs roughly $0.60-$0.80/hr on Australian electricity rates versus $1.50-$2.50/hr for a 12kg LPG bottle heater.
Can you use a patio heater on a balcony in Australia?
Electric patio heaters are generally fine on apartment balconies. Gas heaters with LPG bottles are banned on many strata balconies under state fire regulations — check your building's by-laws. Wall-mounted electric infrared models are the safest and most space-efficient choice for balcony use.
How much does it cost to run an outdoor heater in Australia?
A 2kW electric heater costs approximately $0.60-$0.80 per hour based on average Australian electricity rates of $0.30-$0.40/kWh. A gas mushroom heater using a 9kg LPG bottle costs around $1.50-$2.00 per hour. Running costs vary by state — South Australia and Queensland have higher electricity prices than Tasmania.
Affiliate disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links. If you purchase via our links, AUPicks may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This does not influence our rankings — all picks are based on genuine research.